We believe there is nothing like live performance. We are excited by shows that amuse, move and thrill you and which celebrate the unique feeling of sharing an intimate room and a live experience with 100 other people.
We feel just as passionately today as we did when we started this adventure in 2011 and, more than ever, we are on a mission to make live theatre something that everyone feels welcome to, part of and excited by.
A vital arts hub run by a passionate group of Bristol theatre-makers, we do things differently at The Wardrobe Theatre – come and see for yourself!
Bristol’s leading fringe theatre
The Wardrobe Theatre is a 100 seater studio venue and arts hub showcasing the best theatre-makers, companies and artists from around Bristol and the UK. Since 2011 we have grown to become one of the leading cultural voices in the South West and one of the UK’s most respected fringe venues.
Artists and audiences are at the heart of everything we do. Every year we welcome audiences of 35,000+ and stage 500+ performances. Our programme is a lovingly curated mix of theatre, comedy, storytelling, poetry/spoken word, live music, puppetry, cabaret, drag, improvisation, new writing and family shows, with an emphasis on emerging artists and Bristol-based work. Regularly throughout the year we also produce/co-produce productions of our own with dynamic, Bristol-based creative teams and companies, shows which often go on to tour nationally.
What makes The Wardrobe Theatre different?
- We are a theatre ran by artists, for artists
- We are a relaxed, informal, welcoming venue
- We are affordable for both audiences and artists
- Over 70% of our programme is from Bristol artists, companies and theatre-makers and we have an excellent track record of supporting local talent early on
- We prioritise family theatre and want to help children discover the magic of live theatre
- The programme is a playground for exciting new ideas and we encourage artists to take risks
- We are proud of our reputation for saying: “You saw it here first!”
- We are passionate about the positive influence culture has on communities and individuals, bringing happiness, forming lasting bonds and improving health and wellbeing
